Hedged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ
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hedged

[hษ›dส’d ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

financial protection

To hedge means to protect oneself against potential losses in investments by taking an offsetting position in a related asset. This is commonly used in finance and involves strategies like options and futures contracts. By hedging, investors can minimize risk exposure while maintaining the potential for profit. It's a common practice to ensure stability in uncertain economic conditions.

Synonyms

protect, safeguard, secure.

Examples of usage

  • Investors hedged their portfolios against market downturns.
  • The company hedged its currency risks through options.
  • Traders regularly hedge their positions to avoid losses.
  • She decided to hedge her bets in the stock market.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Finance

  • Hedging in finance often involves using financial instruments like derivatives to offset potential losses in investments.
  • Investors use strategies like options and futures contracts to hedge against market fluctuations, helping to ensure stability.
  • The practice of hedging is essential in risk management, allowing businesses to navigate uncertainty.

Metaphor in Literature

  • Hedged arguments in literature are often used to illustrate complex characters who balance risk and safety, reflecting human nature.
  • In poetry, the idea of hedging can symbolize both protection and restriction, capturing the tension between freedom and boundaries.
  • Classic literature has depicted characters who hedge their emotions, showcasing the struggle between vulnerability and courage.

Psychology

  • The concept of hedging appears in decision-making where individuals weigh options to avoid regret in uncertain situations.
  • People often hedge their statements in conversations to prevent commitment, which can reflect anxiety or lack of confidence.
  • Cognitive dissonance theory explores how hedged decisions can alleviate the stress of potential mistakes by keeping choices flexible.

Pop Culture

  • In pop culture, characters who hedge their bets can create tension, as audiences anticipate their next move amidst uncertainty.
  • Movies and books frequently portray hedonistic characters who hedge their commitments to avoid emotional pain, adding complexity to their arcs.
  • The phrase 'hedge your bets' has permeated mainstream media, often used humorously or dramatically in various contexts.

Origin of 'hedged'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from Old English, where 'hedge' meant a fence or boundary formed by a dense row of shrubs or low trees.
  • In finance, โ€˜hedgingโ€™ evolved in the 19th century, referring to strategies that limit potential losses on investments.
  • The concept of hedging as a protective measure has roots in agriculture, where farmers would create barriers (hedges) to protect crops.

The word 'hedge' comes from the Old English 'hวฃc', which means 'fence' or 'enclosure'. It evolved to describe a protective barrier, primarily in agricultural contexts. The financial meaning of 'hedging' emerged in the 19th century, reflecting the idea of safeguarding against loss similar to how a physical hedge protects a garden. Over time, the term has been widely adopted in various financial strategies, especially in relation to stocks, bonds, and commodities. The concept has become essential in modern risk management practices, allowing investors to navigate the complexities of financial markets.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,439, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.